Albanian
Origin
Albania
History
The Albanian is a small horse belonging to the Balkan group that includes the small horses of Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbian and Turkey.
During the Ottoman Empire a great deal of Arab blood was infused into the local horses, which were likely various combinations of Tarpan, Turkmenian and Mongolian stock.
The breeding of horses is an old passion of the Albanian people, going back to many centuries. Albanian horses have always had a good reputation among other Balkan peoples and have been distinguished for its freedom of movement, agility in difficult terrain, resistance to disease and notable endurance. They were used more for transport and riding than for agricultural purposes.
Social and economic factors combined with the land and climate have played important roles in determining the numbers of Albanian horses as well as the types seen. The goals of Albanian horse breeders today are concentrated on improvement and increase in numbers. The Haflinger breed was imported from Austria to improve the working abilities of horses in the hilly regions of the country. Nonius horses, originating in Hungary, were imported beginning in 1947 and improve the growth rate when crossed to local horses. Purebred Arab were crossed and represent excellent genetic value to add to the gene pool. The improved breeds are concentrated in large breeding centers such as the Zootechnic Station at Shkodra and at specialized farms where stallions are produced for improving local horses.
Description
- Conformation:
there are two types of native Albanian horse, which are referred to as „Mountain" and „Plain". But today, the distinction between the two is not as clear as in the past due to a good deal of exchange between the two. Essentially, the Plain type of Myzeqea is distinguished by greater weight and development and larger size. - Average height:
the Mountain type stands about 12.2 to 12.3 hands and the Plain type on average about 13.2 hands - Colour:
usually bay and dark bay. - Temperament:
willing, lively - Today:
the Albanian Myzeqea is very good for long distance use. It is often used as carriage horses as well as for riding and light draft. Each year national shows are organized in Albania, where the best individuals of pure breeds and crosses are represented. Recently shows have been organized for national riding competitions.
